In two separate matches, two Indian bowlers found themselves on the verge of achieving a hat-trick: Axar Patel against Bangladesh and Kuldeep Yadav against Pakistan. Of the two instances, Axar's hat-trick appeared imminent when he successfully coaxed the batter into an erroneous shot, resulting in an edge. However, the opportunity was thwarted when Rohit Sharma, positioned at first slip, failed to secure the catch, thereby denying Axar his first ODI hat-trick. The captain expressed his frustration by striking the ground, offered an apology to Axar, and even pledged to treat him to dinner post-match. Despite this setback, the left-arm spinner concluded with figures of 2/43, missing out on what could have been at least three wickets.

In a broader context, India triumphed over Bangladesh by a convincing six wickets and subsequently enhanced their record against Pakistan just two days later. Axar once again showcased his skills by dismissing captain Mohammad Rizwan and taking the catch that led to the dismissal of half-centurion Saud Shakeel. In the closing stages of the match, Axar was also instrumental with the bat, carefully calculating to ensure that Virat Kohli received the majority of the strike to complete his century.

However, there remains curiosity regarding whether Rohit honored his commitment to take Axar out for dinner, or at the very least, provided him with a meal as recompense for the dropped catch. As it stands, that has not yet occurred. "We have a six-day break, and I believe we have qualified as well. So, I think now I will have a chance to ask him for my dinner," Axar remarked during an interview with the ICC.

Team India's week-long gap

As Axar noted, he, Rohit, and the rest of the Indian squad are enjoying a week-long respite to unwind, strategize for the upcoming matches, and, of course, arrange that dinner. India's next encounter is scheduled for Sunday, March 2, against New Zealand. Although both teams have secured their places in the semi-finals, the match holds significance, as a victory for either side will elevate them to the top of the group. The leading team from Group A will face the second-placed team from Group B in the first semi-final on March 5, allowing the winner three days to prepare for the final on March 9.

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